These cinnamon breakfast bites are warm, tender on the inside, and coated with a sweet, crispy cinnamon-sugar shell. Baked until golden, they’re perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or a cozy snack alongside a cup of tea or milk.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bite-sized treats come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients and no yeast required. They bake in under 20 minutes, making them ideal for mornings when you want something homemade without the wait. The contrast between the soft interior and the crunchy cinnamon coating makes them especially satisfying for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup crisp rice cereal, coarsely crushed
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
1/2 cup 2% milk
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, crushed rice cereal, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the milk and stir just until the dough is moistened. Do not overmix.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
In a shallow bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with the ground cinnamon. Dip each dough ball into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Arrange the coated balls in a single layer in an 8-inch round baking pan or cast-iron skillet.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 24 breakfast bites.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 15–18 minutes
Total time: about 25–30 minutes
Variations
You can add 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a warmer spice flavor. For extra texture, mix 2 tablespoons finely chopped nuts into the dough. A light drizzle of simple vanilla glaze over the baked bites can also add a dessert-style finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon breakfast bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm the bites in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave individual portions for about 10 to 15 seconds until just warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make these breakfast bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them the night before and reheat them briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze cinnamon breakfast bites?
Yes, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of butter-flavored shortening?
You can substitute an equal amount of regular unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces.
Do I need a cast-iron skillet to bake these?
No, a standard 8-inch round baking pan works just as well.
Can I use whole milk instead of 2% milk?
Yes, whole milk can be used without any changes to the recipe.
How do I keep the bites from becoming dry?
Avoid overmixing the dough and be careful not to overbake them.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar in the coating, but it will affect the crispness and sweetness.
Are these suitable for brunch gatherings?
Yes, their small size and sweet flavor make them great for sharing at brunch or breakfast buffets.
Can I add raisins or chocolate chips?
You can mix in up to 1/4 cup of small add-ins, but keep them finely chopped to maintain the bite shape.
What’s the best way to serve these?
They are best served warm, straight from the oven or shortly after reheating.
Conclusion
Cinnamon breakfast bites are a simple yet comforting treat that brings bakery-style flavor right into your kitchen. With their crisp coating, soft centers, and quick preparation, they’re a recipe you’ll want to make again and again for mornings, snacks, or special occasions.
These cinnamon breakfast bites are soft on the inside with a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating, baked to golden perfection for a cozy and quick morning treat.
Ingredients
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup crisp rice cereal, coarsely crushed
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter-flavored shortening
1/2 cup 2% milk
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, combine flour, crushed rice cereal, 2 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add milk and stir just until moistened—do not overmix.
Shape dough into 1-inch balls.
Mix remaining 1/2 cup sugar with cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Dip each ball in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon-sugar to coat.
Arrange coated balls in a single layer in an 8-inch round pan or cast-iron skillet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool slightly and serve warm.
Notes
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar for extra warmth.
